Joe Allen has hailed Brendan Rodgers' work during the summer transfer window to bolster the Liverpool squad ahead of a new campaign with Champions League football.

Brendan Rodgers has tried to diminish the impact of Luis Suarez's departure to Barcelona by strengthening all areas of the team with nine new additions.

Mario Balotelli has been the latest arrival at Anfield after the Mersyside club previously completed the signings of Adam Lallana, Rickie Lambert, Lazar Markovic, Emre Can, Dejan Lovren, Javier Manquillo, Alberto Moreno and Divock Origi, who remains on loan at Lille.

"It is credit to the club and all the staff who have worked so hard this summer to strengthen the squad on the back of a positive season," Allen said to the Liverpool official website.

"It shows our ambition to take that next step going forward. All the additions have settled in quickly. That's been a big positive so far.

"They've brought plenty of pace and they are going to be a big threat for us throughout the year. Our squad has great balance now throughout, strength in depth, and there is certainly going to be competition for places in every area."

Allen is not concerned about his teammates seeing their chances to play reduced by the new signings but believes they will be even more motivated to earn a place in Rodgers' line-up.

"Top players like playing with top players - it brings out the best in people. It's great to have competition throughout the squad. It spurs everyone on to improve and perform at their best."

When questioned about Balotelli's latest addition, he said: "I'm excited to work with him.

"He's a player with massive quality. He has that spontaneous edge to him. He's going to give us a massive threat. It's a signing that is another great addition."